Three Kuki Church Leaders Killed In Manipur Ambush
The Kuki Organisation for Human Rights Trust (KOHUR) condemned the attack, alleging involvement of NSCN-IM cadres in collusion with ZUF, and termed it a “premeditated act” targeting peace efforts.
Guwahati: Three church leaders from the Kuki community were killed and four others injured in an ambush in Kangpokpi district on Wednesday, police said.
The victims were travelling from Churachandpur to Kangpokpi to attend an ecclesiastical meeting when unidentified armed assailants opened fire between Kotlen and Kotjim areas.
The delegation included members of the Thadou Baptist Association and the United Baptist Council, led by Rev V. Sitlhou. Among those killed was Vumthang Sitlhou, a former general secretary of the Manipur Baptist Convention. Police said militant groups are suspected to be behind the attack and investigations are underway.
The Kuki Organisation for Human Rights Trust alleged involvement of cadres of NSCN-IM in collusion with ZUF, describing the incident as a targeted attack. The claims have not been officially confirmed.
Church and community groups said the victims had been involved in reconciliation efforts between Kuki and Naga communities.
In a statement, the Kuki Inpi Manipur said, “During the meeting, Christian leaders from both communities deliberated upon peaceful coexistence, restraint, and dialogue as the only path forward amidst growing tensions. It is therefore profoundly heartbreaking and enraging that a man who dedicated himself to peace and reconciliation should fall victim to such a merciless and calculated act of violence.”
Neiphiu Rio condemned the incident, stating, “I strongly condemn the brutal killing of delegation of Kuki church leaders in Manipur. Such barbaric violence against innocent lives is unacceptable and has no place in any civilised society. Condolences to the bereaved families and the church community during this time of grief.”
N. Biren Singh described the attack as a “dastardly act of terror” and said the state government would bear the medical expenses of the injured. Three of the injured have been shifted to a hospital in Imphal for treatment.
“This act of violence is deeply troubling and devastating not only for the affected families but for the entire state, as it disrupts our path towards peace. Our state is gradually moving towards normalcy, and actions that undermine the collective efforts of the people to restore peace are unacceptable,” he said.
The Naga Legislature Forum, Manipur also condemned the incident.
The attack has disrupted ongoing reconciliation efforts and raised concerns over security in the region.
